Community Urgent Relief Fund
Community Urgent Relief Fund supports organizations providing cash assistance, housing, repairs and disaster services to help Kalamazoo County households recover from the May 7, 2024 tornadoes.
Funder: Kalamazoo Community Foundation
Due Dates: As needed (Applications open upon activation) | Weekly (Application reviews)
Funding Amounts: Amount varies; one-time award
Summary: Supports organizations delivering disaster relief and recovery services, currently prioritizing Kalamazoo County households affected by the May 7, 2024 tornadoes.
Key Information: Individuals and families cannot receive grants directly; individuals or groups may apply through a 501(c)(3) fiscal sponsor.
Description
Established in 2008, the Community Urgent Relief Fund (CURF) is Kalamazoo Community Foundation’s fast, flexible resource for emergency relief, recovery and restoration following natural, economic and human-caused crises in Kalamazoo County. Through the Lifeline Alliance, the foundation coordinates its response with United Way of South Central Michigan’s Disaster Relief Fund. These philanthropic funds complement assistance from FEMA, state and local agencies, and private insurance.
Current funding priorities address recovery from the May 7, 2024 tornadoes, including cash assistance, temporary housing, critical home repairs, essential belongings, and disaster case management or volunteer management. Support emphasizes households facing economic hardship and systemic barriers to government resources, alongside BIPOC community members, older adults, people with disabilities and LGBTQIA+ individuals.
